Glitches Causing Errors on Medicare Advantage Portal

When it comes to health care, accurate information is critical. But a new government directory meant to compare Medicare Advantage plans is frequently giving seniors the wrong info.

The plan finder tool, accessed through the Medicare.gov website, has been sometimes duplicating provider addresses or showing "the same provider … simultaneously in-network and out-of-network," according to a Washington Post report.

The new Medicare Advantage directory launched on Oct. 15, just before the start of Medicare’s 2025 open enrollment period. Reports say health officials are at work fixing the glitches.

Medicare portal could offer one-stop plan shopping — when fixed

The Medicare Advantage listings are meant to create a single space where consumers can check if their providers are covered under a given Medicare Advantage plan. This way, they don’t have to go through an agent or contact the provider themselves.

Medicare Advantage is an optional insurance alternative to Original Medicare, covering inpatient and outpatient care, and sometimes including Part D drug coverage as well.

The Department of Health and Human Services said officials had "identified and [are] addressing some user interface and data alignment issues to ensure the best possible experience," AARP reported Oct. 17.

The new Medicare Advantage directory is part of a broader push to improve the health care system. Other plans include apps with AI assistants to help check symptoms and navigate care options, as well as better digital security for the Medicare website.

How to shop around for Medicare today

Whether you’re already in Medicare or are just now approaching the Medicare age of 65, make sure you know about your different Medicare coverage options, including the differences between Medicare Advantage and Medigap.

Even if the government Medicare Advantage portal is still glitchy, you can at least check out ValuePenguin’s list of best Medicare Advantage plans, as well as the overall best health insurance plans for retirees and seniors, including some non-Medicare options.

Doing a little research on your health insurance is worth the time, since the more you know about your choices, the more money you’re likely to save.